I always look forward to any trip to a spa. But I was especially excited about visiting the new JWMarriott Las Vegas because I had actually attended the topping off party when the property was originally built as the first Regent property in the United States.
The structure is even more spectacular than I expected and Marriott has certainly come through with a sharp staff to run the hotel.
The hotel is unique because it was built as the first deluxe property off the strip—a refugee for those who came to Las Vegas for something more than gambling. There is the expected casino on property, but it is not the focal point of the resort. To me the outstanding feature is the spa, Aqua Solis, with every state of the art piece of equipment and a soothing stable of therapists.
There is also an executive chef, French-born, Arnauld Brian, who inspires truly unique gourmet meals in each of the hotel’s restaurants and meeting venues. He must have fire in his blood because he does some very unique things on the grill, including barbequed Romaine Lettuce.
And while you may want to go down to the strip, you won’t do it just to eat—because there are a variety of tempting restaurants on property.
Ceres
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this casual eatery located in the Spa Tower features American-style fare, served amid waterfalls and garden views. One night my traveling companion Ben and I had a romantic dessert on the terrace at dusk—and it was named Trio of Sin. I am not talking about anything we did, just a delicious combination of Tiramisu, chocolate decadence and Ming pear tart. If you call licking the plate misbehaving, we were very bad.
WARNING: If you are calorie-conscious and inspired by the spa, do not look at the dessert menu. It was designed by a sensual Frenchman who knows the way to a woman’s heart is always chocolate. Chef Armand also knows a lot about cooking.
A good low calorie choice is the grilled salmon and eggplant, a rendition that reflects Chef Arnaud’s skill on the grill.
J.C.Wooloughan Irish Pub
Traditional fare and Irish beers and whiskeys are on the menu at this authentic Irish pub. It is so authentic, in fact, that it was actually shipped from Ireland and reassembled on site.
A fun place to gather with friends, there is always a crowd here. Don’t miss the thatched salad (sounds weird, tastes great) and the sticky toffee pudding
Spiedini
Overlooking the beautiful Red Rock Mountains from the hotel, this Italian restaurant is a favorite with locals, many of who drive FROM the strip to dine here. Legendary chef Gustav Mauler’s menu features robust Italian dishes using the very best seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is modern Milanese; the décor is rich and warm. Be sure to try the Buffalo Mozzarella. 702-869-8500 www.spiedini.com
Hamada of Japan
This Japanese-style steakhouse and sushi bar is open for dinner only. You can enjoy a friendly sushi bar in front with several sushi chefs. The portions are large-- each roll has 8 slices. Be sure to try the pot stickers and the Teriyaki beef. I loved the fried Tofu. 702-363-5531 OR CALL THE RESORT AT 702-869-7777
Aquae Sulis
If you manage to try of few of these great restaurants, you will not doubt want to visit the spa. In addition to 40,000 square feet of luxurious pampering facilities with 36 treatment rooms, Aquae Sulis also features a state-of-the-art health studio where guests can work out, take a yoga class or participate in individual exercise programs. Nutritional and stress management consultations are also available.
WHAT TO DO BETWEEN MEALS
You will love the up-to-the-minute exercise facilities at the spa, Aquae Sulis. In the midst of a stressful world, Aquae Sulis Spa serves as a special retreat for healing and renewal. Discover this oasis of health and rejuvenation far above the noise and excitement of the Las Vegas Strip. Here you will find a haven to relax, refresh and regroup. Work out, have a massage or a rejuvenating body treatment, beautify yourself or just repose in this serene retreat.
The spa at the JW Marriott Las Vegas takes its name from a spa popular during two historical epochs. The first Aquae Sulis was the ancient Roman town and temple bath that later became Bath, England. For three hundred years prior to the fifth century, it was a center of recreation and healing for Romans believing in the power of its waters to purify.
Water and its healing power are at the heart of the modern Aquae Sulis. The hydrotherapy circuit, the Aquae Sulis Ritual, echoes a European-style “taking the waters,” first performed in the baths of ancient Greece and Rome. Massage and hydrotherapy meet in the outdoor Aquae-Flow Shiatsu tub.
A luxury center for beauty and wellness built on the foundations of ancient therapeutic wisdom and water’s healing power. With the best of modern science and human touch, the therapists at JWMarriott Aquae Sulis soothe your body, mind and spirit.
And don’t leave without experiencing the water circuit with five stations in the outdoor pool. It is the only one like it in the United States. Spend a relaxing hour in preparation for your treatment with the Aquae Sulis Ritual, included with all treatments excluding waxes. You will begin in either the men’s or women’s Ritual Room with calming hot and stimulating cold plunges followed by a soak in the warm whirlpool. Surrounded by garden waterfalls, you will next move through the six invigorating chambers of the outdoor therapy pool. Your body’s “third kidney,” the skin, expels toxins in the steam and sauna. A waterfall shower provides a massaging cleanse. Relax and the end with your choice of Aquae Sulis teas, infused water, juices, and fresh fruit.
It is hard to choose between the terrific treatments to pamper your body. My favorite was the Color Therapy where an aura was taken of me before and after the treatment. My aura was big and creative and colorful before, after a green bath soak with skilled therapist Kate massaging my neck and back, I was white energy and spiritual color.
Some of the other treatments include:
Massage Therapies
Neck-Back-Shoulder Massage
A variety of techniques relax muscles knotted from accumulated daily stress.
25 minutes $65.00
Aquae Sulis Spa Massage
Our version of the classic Swedish full body massage – an excellent choice to relieve general tension by soothing sore and tired muscles. Long effleurage strokes and kneading techniques relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce stress.
50 minutes $90.00
80 minutes $140.00
Aquae Sulis Swe-atsu
This Aquae Sulis original is based on the Asian concept of a unified mind, body, and spirit. Swedish strokes relax the body and quiet the mind while acupressure and Shiatsu techniques help to enliven the chi, or life energy, flowing through the body.
50 minutes $110.00
80 minutes $150.00
Southwest Stone Therapy
Feel at one again with Mother Earth as heated stones soothe your sore and tired muscles. The smoothness and varying temperatures of each stone create a sense of well being, comfort, and healing.
50 minutes $125.00
80 minutes $175.00
Aromatherapy Massage
The healing power of touch with select groups of oils restores harmony to the mind, body and spirit – a holistic experience. Your therapist will help you choose a blend for the massage.
50 minutes $115.00
80 minutes $165.00
Deep T
Massage
A bodywork technique that applies pressure to deeper layers of muscle and connective t
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where aches, chronic pain and fatigue are trapped.
50 minutes $120.00
80 minutes $170.00
Shiatsu
A traditional Japanese method of massage to improve the flow of vital life energy. Direct pressure is applied at specific points along energy meridians to release muscular tension and rebalance the body. This can be relaxing or invigorating and is most effective when the client is dressed in loose clothes for movement.
50 minutes $100.00
Cranial Sacral
Gentle traction and pressure to the scalp and spine release muscle restriction and tension, restoring symmetry and creating a sense of well being. This massage is especially effective for those who suffer from headaches, sinus problems, neck and low back pain.
80 minutes $175.00
Maternity Massage
Every expectant mother needs special care and attention. Select therapists have been trained to use a special support system for a massage that safely relieves tension and discomfort caused by the physiology of pregnancy.
50 minutes $90.00
80 minutes $140.00
Aquae-Flow Shiatsu
Listen to the sound of waterfalls and the tree leaves moving in the desert breeze as you enjoy the private garden Aquae-Flow Shiatsu tub. Your therapist supports you in warm water and performs gentle movements of Shiatsu massage. Swimsuits required.
50 minutes $125.00
80 minutes $190.00
Reflexology
Everyday living can create imbalance in your body’s energy zones. This Asian technique applies pressure to reflex points in the feet that correspond to specific energy zones, restoring harmony.
50 minutes $100.00
Peppermint Foot Treatment
Your feet will feel revitalized as they are wrapped in warmed peppermint infused towels. A foot massage with peppermint oil and lotion finishes this delightful treatment.
25 minutes $65.00
Facial Beauty Therapies
Aquae Sulis Facial
Our signature facial, based on the traditional European facial, is excellent for all skin types, refining skin texture, removing blackheads, cleansing, and hydrating the skin. A warm aromatherapy seawater spray followed by a facial massage rehydrates and revitalizes.
50 minutes $90.00
Intensive Hydrating Facial
This innovative treatment is ideal for water-starved skin. Includes a gentle hydrating mist, mask and a relaxing massage to increase circulation and internal hydration.
50 minutes $130.00
Sensitive Skin Facial
Calming and soothing for any type of irritated, reactive, blotchy, and fragile skin. A combination of soothing plant extracts help repair and strengthen delicate skin.
50 minutes $100.00
Anti-Stress Refresher Facial
Perfect for those on the go. This treatment is rich in anti-oxidants that balance and harmonize the skin through a potent formula of flowers, herbs, and essential oils. Includes a light cleansing, exfoliation, mini massage, and skin reconditioning.
25 minute $65.00
Aquae Sulis Aromatic Facial
Excellent for the maintenance of radiant, healthy skin. Using aromatic formulas personalized for your skin’s needs, this cleansing, relaxing facial includes a décolleté massage, revitalizing mask, and skin reconditioning.
50 minute $90.00
Gentleman’s Facial
Cleansing and renewing for skin damaged over time by shaving and environmental pollutants. Unwind while our skilled aesthetician cleanses, exfoliates, masks, and massages the skin back to its youthful look and feel.
50 minute $90.00
Deep Cleansing Facial
With a combination of lymphatic drainage and aromatherapy techniques, our aesthetician will cleanse oily, clogged skin, restoring its delicate natural balance.
50 minutes $125.00
Aromatherapy Ultra Facial
Relax and indulge your senses while your skin is thoroughly cleansed, massaged and hydrated. A specific treatment mask paired with an aromatic massage of the hands, arms, shoulders, and feet calms the mind, renews the spirit, and revitalizes the skin.
80 minutes $145.00
Back Beautifier
Designed for the most frequently neglected part of the body, this treatment meets the needs of varying skin types. Citrus Therapy cleanses and purifies oily and congested skin, while a mud mask remineralizes leaving the back smooth and velvety.
50 minutes $120.00
Add On
Papaya Pineapple Enzyme Peel
Add this powerful natural enzyme peel to any facial therapy if deep exfoliation is what you are looking for.
$20.00
Botanical Eye Contour Treatment
This eye treatment has the benefits for eliminating puffiness, decreasing darkness, and minimizing fine lines.
$20.00
Bath Therapies
The art of bathing reaches back to ancient Greece and Rome and is practiced in cultures the world over in varying forms. Bath formulas are enhanced by the 200 massaging air and water jets of the Hydrotone tub. Programmable jets target specific areas, improving circulation, lymphatic drainage and cellular exchange.
Aromatherapy Bath
Stir your senses or lull them with an aromatic blend from the Aquae Sulis collection. Your hydrotherapist will help you select a blend to achieve your desired effect.
25 minutes $65.00
Seatherapy Bath
Contour, detoxify, remineralize, and tone. Give your body all the benefits of marine elements with Seatherapy.
25 minutes $65.00
Moor Mud Bath*
Biologically active mud from Australian moors contains a host of herbs and minerals that balance the skin’s PH and increase blood flow to the t
Copyright 1995-2008 TravelLady Magazine
s. Moor mud is hypoallergenic and anti-inflammatory, making its detoxifying, toning, and revitalizing properties excellent for all skin types.
25 minutes $75.00
Color Therapy Bath
This unique therapy uses aura imaging to maintain balance and harmony within a person’s aura. An aura imaging consultation will determine the blocks in your energy field. Then you will enjoy soaking in a bath of pure color. Nine formulas are designed to draw energy to your chakras, restoring balance. Afterward, a second aura image consultation shows you the results.
50 minutes $100.00
Body Treatments
French Body Polish
A gentle exfoliating treatment formulated for sensitive skin. Using long strokes, a light cream is massaged until your skin is radiant and silky smooth.
25 minutes $65.00
Aquae Sulis Body Silk
Our signature body treatment begins with a French polish to even skin texture. An herbal body gommage prepares the skin, aromatic seawater gel with essential oils next rebalance and remineralize it. After a warm shower rinse, a dry passionflower and camellia seed oil spray and rich body cream provide moisture.
80 minutes $165.00
Kari Softness Shea Butter
Named after the luxurious oil produced by the African Karite nut tree, this treatment offers three remarkable benefits: exfoliation, hydration, and skin nourishment. The butter is melted and applied all over the body leaving the skin feeling smooth, silky and radiant.
50 minutes $130.00
Vichy Shower Body Treatments
This French hydrotherapy concept, developed in the village of Vichy, is coupled with Aquae Sulis body services. During or after the body treatment, you will lie under showerheads positioned along the body. Alternating water pressure of the rain-like shower together with light temperature fluctuations cleanses and relaxes.
Margarita Salt Glow
A refreshing salt scrub combining a “Margarita flavor” and fun to deep cleanse, exfoliate, and replenish the skin.
50 minutes $90.00
Orange Vanilla Swirl Body Scrub
A creamy orange delight beginning with a full body exfoliation. After a rain shower rinse, a gentle moisturizer protects newly radiant skin. Stirs your senses with a swirl of orange and vanilla.
50 minutes $90.00
HOW TO LOOK LIKE A MILLION DOLLARS EVEN IF YOU DID NOT WIN AT THE SLOTS
1.Roland K
This trendy store located in the JWMarriott Promenade has upbeat, colorful fashions for young slender bodies. If you can wear their clothes, you will find some great deals. The pices are reasonable, and when I visited that had many rounders offering deals of 30 to 40 per cent off.
2.Twice as Nice
A friendly resale store owned by Threresa Gregg and Carla Glenn makes you feel like a winner from the moment you approach the store. The day I was there, a five-dollar rack greeted you at the door. There were some terrific choices; I saw an outfit that they had originally priced at $39.95. Inside there was a good selection of half-the-marked-price selections in the back. Some of the things appeared to be new, all were in good condition. My purchases included a gold-plated ring with an amber stone ($15), a Vera yellow and orange scarf ($2), and a wooden flower necklace ($6) that matched an outfit I had with me.
TWICE AS NICE West renaissance shopping center 4001 s. Decatur suite 16 Las Vegas, 89103 702-220-5410
3. Catholic Charities
The in thing is recycling and knowing how and where to find the look the second time around is a contemporary skill. I lucked into a Catholic Charities shop on a day when all the clothing was half price. After finding an apricot linen Anne Klein blazer for four dollars, I was hooked. I bought an armload at the first store, and then quickly drove to the next nearest Catholic Charities store. I would have done them all if I had the time. Labels I noticed at both were Chaus, Carole Little (bought a dramatic black and white surplice top for two dollars), Cedars, The Limited, Gap, Casual Corner and Lane Bryant Designs.
Just remember, ever dollar you save could win the jackpot.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES Great deals on used clothes Open 7 days a week 808 South Main Street between Bonneville and Charleston 382-8472 382-4604
2256 Nellis Blvd corner of Sahara and Nellis 431-8175
3430 E. Tropicana Avenue corner of Tropicana and Pecos 450-3966
1767 N. Rancho Drive just north of Vegas Drive 646-2150
4921 W. Vegas Drive just West of Decatur 647-6729
JWMARRIOT LAS VEGAS RESORT, SPA AND GOLF 221 NORTH RAMPART BLVD. Las Vegas, Nv 89145 877-869-8777 702-869-7339 www.marriott.com www.jwmarriottlv.com
set 15 miles northw4est of the Las Vegas Strip in the affluent master-planned community of Summerlin, the JWMarriott Las Vegas Resort, Spa and Gold is approximately 20 minutes from McCarran International Airport
TM
I always look forward to any trip to a spa. But I was especially excited about visiting the new JWMarriott Las Vegas because I had actually attended the topping off party when the property was originally built as the first Regent property in the United States.
Overlooking the beautiful Red Rock Mountains from the hotel, this Italian restaurant is a favorite with locals, many of who drive FROM the strip to dine here. Legendary chef Gustav Mauler’s menu features robust Italian dishes using the very best seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is modern Milanese; the décor is rich and warm. Be sure to try the Buffalo Mozzarella.
You will love the up-to-the-minute exercise facilities at the spa, Aquae Sulis. In the midst of a stressful world, Aquae Sulis Spa serves as a special retreat for healing and renewal. Discover this oasis of health and rejuvenation far above the noise and excitement of the Las Vegas Strip. Here you will find a haven to relax, refresh and regroup. Work out, have a massage or a rejuvenating body treatment, beautify yourself or just repose in this serene retreat.
The spa at the JW Marriott Las Vegas takes its name from a spa popular during two historical epochs. The first Aquae Sulis was the ancient Roman town and temple bath that later became Bath, England. For three hundred years prior to the fifth century, it was a center of recreation and healing for Romans believing in the power of its waters to purify. 
Water and its healing power are at the heart of the modern Aquae Sulis. The hydrotherapy circuit, the Aquae Sulis Ritual, echoes a European-style “taking the waters,” first performed in the baths of ancient Greece and Rome. Massage and hydrotherapy meet in the outdoor Aquae-Flow Shiatsu tub.
And don’t leave without experiencing the water circuit with five stations in the outdoor pool. It is the only one like it in the United States. Spend a relaxing hour in preparation for your treatment with the Aquae Sulis Ritual, included with all treatments excluding waxes. You will begin in either the men’s or women’s Ritual Room with calming hot and stimulating cold plunges followed by a soak in the warm whirlpool. Surrounded by garden waterfalls, you will next move through the six invigorating chambers of the outdoor therapy pool. Your body’s “third kidney,” the skin, expels toxins in the steam and sauna. A waterfall shower provides a massaging cleanse. Relax and the end with your choice of Aquae Sulis teas, infused water, juices, and fresh fruit.
Neck-Back-Shoulder Massage